Full-Time

Quality Technician

LTA Research

LTA Research

51-200 employees

Manufactures sustainable airships for humanitarian aid

Compensation Overview

$38 - $46/hr

Mountain View, CA, USA

In Person

On-site role; must have personal transportation; daily collaboration with production, engineering, and quality teams.

Category
QA & Testing (1)
Required Skills
GD&T
ISO 9001

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Requirements
  • Associate’s degree or technical certification in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, or a related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
  • 2+ years of experience in quality inspection, preferably in aerospace or other highly regulated industries
  • Knowledge of AS9100 and general ISO quality systems
  • Familiarity with regulatory requirements from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or similar authorities
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, including Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
  • Proficiency in using precision measurement tools
  • Experience performing first article inspections (FAI), in-process inspections, and final inspections
  • Basic understanding of non-destructive testing (NDT) methods is a plus
  • Strong problem-solving skills, including use of Root Cause Analysis and corrective action processes (CAPA)
  • High attention to detail with strong documentation and record-keeping skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, compliance-driven environment
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
  • Working knowledge of avionics systems, including connectors, wire harnesses, and standard testing methods
  • Solid understanding of mechanical assemblies, including tolerances and fit requirements
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Personal Mode of Transportation required
Responsibilities
  • Perform incoming, in-process, and final inspections on aerospace components to ensure compliance with engineering specifications and quality standards
  • Support investigations using Root Cause Analysis and assist in implementing corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)
  • Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and suppliers to resolve quality issues and improve processes
  • Monitor production processes to ensure adherence to quality standards and identify opportunities for improvement
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant inspection area in line with safety and regulatory requirements
  • Initiate NCRs with detailed and accurate descriptions of discrepancies, including reference to drawings, specifications, and inspection results
  • This position is fully onsite and requires daily collaboration with production, engineering, and quality teams.
  • Document inspection results accurately and maintain detailed quality records and traceability
Desired Qualifications
  • First Article Inspections (FAI)
  • In-process and final inspections
  • Non-destructive testing (NDT) basics
  • Six Sigma training
  • Working knowledge of AS9100 quality management standards and experience supporting compliance within an aerospace or manufacturing environment

LTA Research focuses on building next-generation airships to support humanitarian efforts and reduce aviation’s carbon footprint. It designs and manufactures airships such as Pathfinder 1, aiming to provide efficient, environmentally friendly transport for disaster relief, cargo, and surveillance. The airships operate via lighter-than-air technology powered by advanced engineering, enabling longer endurance and lower fuel use than traditional aircraft. The company differentiates itself through its historical Akron Airdock heritage, multi-location operations, and emphasis on sustainable aviation for humanitarian, government, and commercial clients. The goal is to offer viable, low-emission air transport solutions that complement existing airlift capabilities and make shipping and response operations more carbon-efficient.

Company Size

51-200

Company Stage

N/A

Total Funding

N/A

Headquarters

Mountain View, California

Founded

1929

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Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • Pathfinder 1 achieved untethered flight October 24, 2024, and flew Golden Gate Bridge October 28, 2025.
  • Brett Crozier appointed CEO to lead Pathfinder 3 development, 33% larger than Pathfinder 1.
  • FAA Special Airworthiness Certificate enables expanded testing at Moffett Field since 2023.

What critics are saying

  • FAA certification for commercial operations delays market entry 18-36 months.
  • No commercial orders exist, risking capital exhaustion before revenue in 18-36 months.
  • Sergey Brin funding withdrawal halts development and credibility in 12-36 months.

What makes LTA Research unique

  • Pathfinder 1 is world's largest aircraft at 121.9m, first rigid airship since 1939.
  • Designed with Luftschiffbau Zeppelin, features fly-by-wire and diesel-electric hybrid propulsion.
  • Built in historic Akron Airdock using advanced Tedlar skin and titanium nose cone.

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Benefits

Relocation Assistance

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Parental Leave

Unlimited Paid Time Off

Paid Holidays

401(k) Company Match

Monthly wellness stipend

Monthly cell phone stipend

Yearly education stipend

Mental Health Support

Company Social Events

Company News

LTA Research
Oct 29th, 2024
LTA Research announces new CEO

LTA Research is pleased to announce the appointment of Brett Crozier as its new chief executive officer.

The Sun
Nov 27th, 2023
World's biggest aircraft unveiled with 400ft airship twice size of a Boeing 747 - and there are plans for a BIGGER one

The Pathfinder 1 has been in development since 2016, and LTA Research says it is currently working to develop an even larger aircraft named the Pathfinder 3.